With Black Friday in about a week’s time, many stores are preparing for what is likely to be an extremely busy period. With this in mind, think of the security guards who work tirelessly to catch potential thieves.
Did you know that retail crime in the UK this year reached £700 million? That’s a 6% increase, according to the British Retail Consortium (BRC).
The survey also found that the “biggest concern” was the increase in violent incidents, causing injuries to retail staff.
Many of us at one time or another have or currently work in the retail sector. You may remember witnessing incidents or being instructed by management to keep a close eye on a few key red flags. Whether you are a security guard or a staff member, it is important to work together to prevent theft. Not only to reduce inventory losses, but also to maintain overall security. You will be trained to look for a very specific set of clues.
So, what are they then?
Not your Normal Customers
Although it is easy to assume that clients may fit many profiles, i.e. older, middle-aged, young professionals, parents, students. An atypical client could be someone you would not normally see and thus arouse suspicion. A group of four to five teenagers or a dishevelled looking person could be a red flag. While it is obviously unwise to draw conclusions, there is never any harm in discreetly expressing a watchful eye.
Big bags
There’s a reason this flag is the most obvious to look for. Contrary to popular belief, thieves are not discreet. Devious, yes, but certainly not the first. Unlike a pick-pocketer, their priority will be to fill their bags with as much stock as possible. They will literally shovel it without any finesse. You’d be surprised. Another factor is that thieves rarely sail and operate rather quickly to get out as quickly as possible.
Groups or Pairs
Have you ever heard that “two heads are better than one”? It’s the same here. Often, when thieves operate, it is likely that they will work with an accomplice or “decoy” to help them do the job. While the decoy works his magic, distracting the manager with questions about a pair of jeans, the shoplifter’s bag is waiting fattened from stock.
LingeringNear the Exits
There is an obvious advantage to stealing goods near an exit, as it allows for a clean getaway.
Appearance
Remember that it’s not just the big bags you need to watch out for, the huge overcoats can also be a great place to store stolen stock.
We hope all of the above will give you a lot to think about and keep you on your A-game. Another final note is that thieves often return to the stores they stole from. Their mindset is that if it worked once before, it will work again. The good news is that this will only increase the chances of catching them when they return.
